Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for January 7, 2008


More sun exposure may be good for some people

A new study finds that moderate sun exposure can increase vitamin D production, which protects against various cancers and diseases. The research suggests that people in southern latitudes produce more vitamin D due to increased solar radiation intensity.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2008

Oncolytics Biotech, Inc. announces publication of research

A study published in Clinical Cancer Research examines the antitumor efficacy and safety of various combinations of reovirus and cyclophosphamide. The findings support investigation in human clinical trials to modulate, but not ablate, the immune system before systemic reovirus administration.

SourceOncolytics Biotech Inc.·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJan 7, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Ceramic hybrid needles take the sting out of shots

Researchers developed ceramic hybrid needles using two-photon polymerization, creating microneedles resistant to breakage. The new technology enables efficient drug delivery and minimizes trauma during injections.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalInternational Journal of Applied Ceramic Technology·DateJan 7, 2008

A special issue of the International Journal of Plant Sciences

This special issue of the International Journal of Plant Sciences presents exciting research on flower evolution, pollination, and reproductive strategies in flowering plants. The focus is on evolutionary transitions, which are key elements of biological diversification.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalInternational Journal of Plant Sciences·DateJan 7, 2008

Here's something new to worry about: Anxiety hikes heart attack risk

New research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology reveals that longstanding anxiety markedly increases the risk of heart attack, even when other cardiovascular risk factors are taken into account. Anxiety is unique among psychological factors in predicting heart disease risk.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 7, 2008
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Colonoscopy fears overcome when patients support patients

A randomized trial found that telephone mentoring from trained peer coaches increased the likelihood of keeping a first colonoscopy appointment by two times. Patients with peer support were more likely to be insured and have better primary care adherence, and nearly 70% kept their appointments.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 7, 2008

Smallpox vaccine alternative identified

Researchers at University of California, Irvine have identified a modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) as a potential alternative to the existing smallpox vaccine. MVA produced similar antiviral responses in human and animal studies, suggesting its safety and effectiveness. The study marks a significant advancement in developing a safe...

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJan 7, 2008

Despite efforts, significant racial disparities in cancer therapy still exist

A recent study by Yale researchers found significant racial disparities in cancer therapy, with black patients less likely than white counterparts to receive treatment for various cancers. Despite efforts to improve access to care, the disparities persisted, highlighting the need for continued work to address these issues.

SourceYale University·JournalCancer·DateJan 7, 2008

Trichloroethylene is a risk factor for parkinsonism

A new study found trichloroethylene to be a risk factor for parkinsonism, a group of nervous disorders with symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease. The study showed that chronic exposure to TCE can lead to degenerative changes in the brain, including reduced mitochondrial function and dopamine neuron damage.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJan 7, 2008
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Fatherhood linked to prostate cancer risk

A new study from Danish researchers has found that childless men have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer than fathers, with a reduced risk associated with having more children. The study suggests that this may be due to a "healthy father" phenomenon, where fertile men are less likely to develop the disease.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateJan 7, 2008

Lack of vitamin D may increase heart disease risk

A study of 1,739 participants found that vitamin D levels below 15 ng/mL were associated with a twice higher risk of cardiovascular events. Researchers also observed an increase in cardiovascular risk with each level of vitamin D deficiency.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJan 7, 2008
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Researchers find Sept. 11 stress increases risk of heart problems

Researchers found a 53% increase in cardiovascular ailments after Sept 11 stress, with high anxiety levels three times more likely to report heart problems. The study, published in Archives of General Psychiatry, suggests that even indirect exposure to extreme stress can lead to long-term health consequences.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJan 7, 2008

New gene identified for condition that causes blood clots in brain

A new gene variant has been found to be more common in people with cerebral venous thrombosis than in healthy individuals. The study, published in Neurology, suggests that testing for this gene and using blood thinning medication may help prevent future blood clots.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 7, 2008

Progeny of blind cavefish can regain their sight

Research shows that blind cavefish populations can regain vision in their offspring through hybridization, highlighting genetic differences behind eye loss. The study found that mutations in distinct genes are responsible for eye loss in separate lineages, which can be compensated by good gene copies in hybrids.

SourceCell Press·DateJan 7, 2008

Voter I.D. requirements reduce political participation, study finds

A new study by Brown University finds that voter ID requirements in the US are associated with lower levels of political participation, especially among minority groups. The research also reveals that these policies can discourage legal immigrants from becoming citizens, particularly among blacks and Hispanics.

SourceBrown University·DateJan 7, 2008
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Better access to cool caps improves outcomes, lowers cost of treating asphyxia in newborns

Researchers used industrial modeling to examine access to head cooling devices and found better availability can reduce permanent damage from hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy by 23%, saving lives and reducing severe neurodevelopment impairment. The study also estimated annual savings of $4.4 million in Massachusetts.

SourceInHealth: The Institute for Health Technology Studies·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 7, 2008

Will intensive forest practices impact water quality?

A study investigated intensive forestry's effects on water quality in eastern Texas. Fertilization resulted in small increases of nitrogen and phosphorus in watersheds, but these losses were a fraction of what was applied. Streamside buffers and natural regeneration helped minimize impacts.

SourceSoil Science Society of America·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJan 7, 2008

Scientists discover molecular basis of monarch butterfly migration

Researchers have identified a new clock gene, CRY2, that provides insight into the biology of monarch butterfly migration and evolution of circadian clocks. The discovery reveals a dual function of CRY2 as a core clock component and an output molecule linking the clock to the sun compass.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 7, 2008

Insights into cell movement likely to aid immune study, cancer research

Researchers studied yeast cells to understand actin network regulation, which is crucial for cell movement. The study found that Arp2/3 regulatory proteins have distinct roles in actin assembly and endocytosis, shedding light on the immune system's ability to target disease-causing invaders and cancer cells' migration.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 7, 2008
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

American Mathematical Society 2008 Awards

The American Mathematical Society awarded prizes in various categories including lifetime achievement, seminal contributions, mathematical exposition, and outstanding research by an undergraduate student. Notable winners include George Lusztig, Endre Szemerédi, Neil Trudinger, Alberto Bressan, and Hiroshi Ooguri.

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·DateJan 7, 2008

Racial disparities persist in cancer care

A new study found that racial disparities in cancer care have persisted despite efforts to mitigate them. Black patients are significantly less likely than white patients to receive therapy for certain types of cancer, including lung, breast, colon, and prostate cancer.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateJan 7, 2008

'Electrospray' droplet research yields surprising, practical results

Researchers at Purdue University have mathematically described precisely how droplets form when liquids are exposed to electric fields, a discovery that contradicts conventional wisdom. The study found that a liquid's viscosity plays a vital role in drop formation and size.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 7, 2008
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

UAB research could improve the prognosis and treatment of lung cancer

Scientists at UAB have identified a new lung cancer marker, AKR1B10, which can appear even before cancer develops. The enzyme's activity may play a role in the development of lung cancer and could be targeted by future treatments.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2008

Forever young: Differentiation blocked in tumor stem cells

Researchers found that cancer stem cells are stuck at an early developmental stage due to epigenetic repression of BMPR1B, leading to aberrant cell division and tumor growth. Forced expression of silenced BMPR1B restored normal differentiation capacity, offering new therapeutic approaches for glioma patients.

SourceCell Press·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 7, 2008

Recurrent genetic deletion linked to autism

A study found that a small portion of chromosome 16, known as 16p11.2, is significantly associated with autism. The deletion occurs in only four out of 712 subjects with autism, yet it is the second most common recurrent genomic disorder linked to the condition.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJan 7, 2008

International team identifies 480 genes that control human cell division

An international team of scientists discovered 480 genes that regulate human cell division and identified over 100 genes with abnormal patterns of activation in cancer cells. These findings provide insights into how cancers develop and potentially lead to new treatments.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2008
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

High-energy ultrasound sharpens view of liver tumors

Researchers at Duke University developed a high-energy form of ultrasound imaging that produces clearer images of liver tumors. The Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) method uses sound waves to push on tissues, capturing their elasticity and stiffness, which can help distinguish between hard and soft tumors.

SourceDuke University·JournalPhysics in Medicine and Biology·DateJan 7, 2008

Emergency responders at high risk to miss work because of injuries

A new study reveals that approximately 10% of EMTs and paramedics in the US miss work because of job-related injuries and illnesses. The study found that responding to high call volumes, working in urban areas, and having a history of back problems increase the risk of injury.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Industrial Medicine·DateJan 7, 2008

Animated movie of ice

Swedish researchers used a computer to simulate ice melting after heating with a short light pulse. The simulation showed that the energy causes OH bonds to oscillate and eventually breaks bridging hydrogen bonds, leading to crystal collapse.

SourceWiley·DateJan 7, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Teens find the benefits of not having sex decline with age

Researchers found that teens who remained sexually inexperienced reported fewer positive benefits from refraining from sex, while those who were sexually experienced valued refraining more. The study suggests that adults should guide teens on coping with both positive and negative outcomes of sexual behaviors.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 7, 2008

Researchers bend light through waveguides in colloidal crystals

Researchers at the University of Illinois have achieved optical waveguiding of near-infrared light through self-assembled, three-dimensional photonic crystals. By using multi-photon polymerization and a laser scanning confocal microscope, they created optically active crystals that can produce low-loss waveguides and low-threshold lasers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 7, 2008

Cave bears from the Carpathians as omnivorous as modern bears

New research reveals that Pleistocene cave bears were as omnivorous as modern bears, eating both plants and animals. This challenges previous studies that suggested they were largely vegetarian.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2008

Scientists can predict psychotic illness in up to 80 percent of high-risk youth

A large study found that identifying youth with risk factors for psychosis can lead to accurate predictions, with a 65-80% accuracy rate. Combinations of risk factors include social decline, family history, unusual thoughts, and past drug abuse. This ability to predict psychosis will help determine the most effective time to intervene.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJan 7, 2008
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Researchers use magnetism to target cells to animal arteries

Scientists have successfully used magnetic fields and nanoparticles to deliver healthy cells to targeted sites in blood vessels. The research, done in animals, may lead to a new method of delivering cells and genes to repair injured or diseased organs in people.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2008

BERT and ERNI proteins control brain development

Research by University College London scientists reveals that BERT and ERNI proteins control brain development timing in vertebrates. By binding to the Sox2 gene, these proteins create a timing mechanism that gives the green light for neural cells to form the brain and nervous system.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 7, 2008

No convincing evidence for decline in tropical forests

A study by Dr Alan Grainger found no convincing evidence for a decline in tropical forests over the past 40 years. Despite local evidence of deforestation, long-term data is plagued by errors and inconsistencies that raise questions about predictions of species extinctions and global climate change.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2008

Physically active teens less likely to become overweight as young adults

A recent study found that participating in school-based physical education and certain extracurricular activities during adolescence may lower the risk of becoming overweight as a young adult. The likelihood of being overweight was reduced by 48% for teens who performed wheel-related activities more than four times a week.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 7, 2008
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

4 health behaviors can add 14 extra years of life

A study found that adopting four healthy behaviors, including quitting smoking and exercising regularly, can add 14 extra years to a person's life. Researchers analyzed data from over 20,000 participants and found that those who adopted all four behaviors had a significantly lower risk of death compared to those who did not.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 7, 2008

Daytime sleep improves memory consolidation

A 90-minute daytime nap significantly speeds up memory consolidation, with participants showing improved performance in tasks requiring motor skills. This discovery may enable the development of methods to accelerate memory consolidation and create stable memories.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 7, 2008

Physical education and active play help teens maintain normal weight as adults

Participation in physical education decreases the likelihood of being an overweight adult by 5-28%. Wheel-related extracurricular activities show the most significant impact on maintaining a healthy weight into young adulthood. Regular physical activity is crucial for reducing obesity risk, especially during adolescence.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 7, 2008

China's biotech industry: An Asian dragon is growing

China's health biotech industry boasts daring medical science innovation and stunning breakthroughs, including the world's first commercialized gene therapy product. However, firms face an uphill battle in attracting high-risk venture capital needed for innovative projects due to uncertain financial systems and export restrictions.

SourceSandra Rotman Centre for Global Health·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 7, 2008
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Bacterial infections in premature babies more common than previously realized

A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found that 23% of neonates born between 23 and 32 weeks gestation have positive umbilical blood cultures for genital mycoplasmas, a frequent cause of congenital fetal infection. These infections are associated with increased risk of neonatal systemic inflammatory resp...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 7, 2008

Overgrazing accelerating soil erosion in northern Mexico

A recent study found that soil erosion in northern Mexico is accelerating due to overgrazing, leading to the loss of fertile land and vegetation. The research team used a rainfall index type hydrological model to simulate soil moisture levels and runoff rates, revealing that areas with low rainfall are most prone to sheet erosion.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateJan 7, 2008

Infants with birthmarks received less oxygen in womb

A study published in Pediatric Dermatology reveals that infants who developed hemangiomas had lower levels of oxygen in their placentas compared to healthy preterm infants. The research suggests that disturbed placental circulation may have contributed to the development of infantile hemangioma.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalPediatric Dermatology·DateJan 7, 2008

Electric sand findings could lead to better climate models

Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a new model that matches real-world measurements of saltation better than classical theory. This new knowledge helps scientists understand how aerosols are released, affecting Earth's climate by blocking and absorbing sunlight.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 7, 2008
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Lack of imagination in older adults linked to declining memory

A study found that older adults with declining imagination are less able to recall detailed memories, hindering their ability to create imagined future events. Researchers discovered a link between episodic memory and the constructive-episodic-simulation process.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 7, 2008

Social standing may be linked to body mass index in teen girls

A study found that teen girls who perceive themselves as lower on the social ladder are more likely to gain weight over time. The research suggests that low school subjective social status may contribute to increases in BMI among adolescent girls.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 7, 2008

Mathematicians find way to improve medical scans

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have developed a mathematical model that proves it is possible to gain full control of sound waves using meta-materials. This could lead to improved medical scans, such as ultrasound technology used in pregnancy tests, and quieter noisy machines by trapping sound.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateJan 7, 2008
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.